Snow transforms Matatiele into winter wonderland
Updated Aug. 11, 2026, 8:57 a.m. | By Kubobonke Luthuli Snow has transformed Matatiele in the Eastern Cape into a winter wonderland, bringing excitement for…
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Updated Aug. 11, 2026, 8:57 a.m. | By Kubobonke Luthuli
Snow has transformed Matatiele in the Eastern Cape into a winter wonderland, bringing excitement for children and another day off for pupils. Residents say the snowfall followed rain on Sunday night, and schools may remain closed depending on the weather.
A blanket of snow has transformed Matatiele in the Eastern Cape into a winter wonderland, bringing excitement to residents and turning the town's streets and rooftops white.
Newswatch visited the snow-covered town, about an hour’s drive from Kokstad, to capture the winter scene.
A layer of soft, white snow settled on the ground and rooftops - transforming the quiet town into a picturesque scene.
Residents say they suspected snow was on the way when Sunday night’s rain was followed by an unusual silence and a sudden warmth in the air.
For the elderly here, it’s a sign winter’s icy grip is finally easing.
For the children, it’s been pure joy in a magical, new playground.
Many were out running and giggling on the soft ground and pelting each other with snowballs.
Pupils are enjoying another day off on Tuesday. Depending on the weather, schools might remain closed a little longer.
Local spaza shops have stayed open for those caught off guard by the snow.
Meanwhile, the South African Weather Service is warning of more disruptive weather in parts of KZN.
The coast remains under a Yellow Level 2 warning for damaging winds and waves, with waves of up to four to six metres and wind gusts reaching 74 kilometres an hour.
Forecaster Wiseman Dlamini says the conditions could make navigation difficult and pose a risk to small vessels.
South-western KZN remains under a Yellow Level 2 warning for disruptive snow, with very cold and windy conditions expected over the interior.
Areas that could see snowfall include Kokstad, Mzimkhulu, Matatiele, Underberg, Giant's Castle, Royal Natal and possibly Bergville.
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